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What makes a good HL-essay question?
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All Flashcards in Topic 5.2
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5.2.110 cards
What makes a good HL-essay question?
Focused, arguable, and about authorial choices (‘how does the writer…’).
Why avoid a topic like ‘the theme of love’?
It invites a list, not a developed argument.
Why avoid a yes/no question?
There's no real argument to develop.
How should the question usually begin?
‘How does the writer use…’ or ‘to what effect…’.
How narrow should it be?
Narrow enough to answer in depth in 1,200–1,500 words — one aspect.
What must the question focus on?
Authorial choices, not just content.
Which criterion does the question drive?
Criterion C — focus and development.
A topic vs a line of inquiry?
A topic names a subject; a line of inquiry poses an arguable ‘how’ question.
What must the question be answerable through?
Close analysis of the work.
The two traps?
A broad topic (a list) and a closed yes/no (no argument).
Topic 5.2 study notes
Full notes & explanations for The research question
English A Lang & Lit exam skills
Paper structures, command terms & tips
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